Fluid Separation

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Fluid Separation admin November 25, 2022
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Fluid Separation
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In oil and gas production, adding an emulsifying agent such as surfactants, solids, sand, scale, paraffin/ asphaltenes – along with agitation from pumps, turbulent flow, choke valves, etc. – and a stable emulsion is generated. Over time, emulsions separate naturally. Apply additional heat, and the emulsions will tend to separate more quickly.
There are two general classes of emulsions found in oilfield systems: regular, where water droplets (internal phase) are entrained in the oil (external phase); or reverse, where oil droplets are internal and water is external. In extreme cases, such as EOR surfactant floods, you may have a regular emulsion in a reverse emulsion, which requires special treatment.
The chemistries used to break apart emulsions are extremely different and generally classified as:
Emulsion Breakers/Demulsifiers/De-emulsifiers:
Water Technologies & Solutions uses best-in-class chemistry formulations to break the emulsions. They can be applied at locations throughout the field to reduce production problems and to enhance the efficiency in separation processes, delivering hydrocarbon liquids which consistently meet the sales specifications. These formulations are fit for use in the process and environment in which they are applied.
Reverse Emulsion Breakers/Water Clarifiers/ Flocculants:
Which type to use is dependent upon the water treating system in place and the quality specifications of the effluent water that must be met for final disposition or reuse of the water.Water Technologies & Solutions has incorporated some of the best chemistries from its downstream business into the upstream line of water clarifiers. These ProSolv water clarifiers have a proven history of successful, cost effective application in a wide variety of brines and system conditions. The chemistries are varied as well, designed to meet a wide range of requirements and chemical-type preferences. In addition, Water Technologies & Solutions leads the industry in water purification, delivering the competitive solutions for water quality that meets your needs.